In August 2018, Nikon announced both the Z7 and Z6. Immediately, the Z7— the more sophisticated of the two— stole the limelight.

This camera was built to stand the test of time as the industry leans more to mirrorless cameras and DSLR sales decline. It’s intended as the future of Nikon cameras— a product that will keep the company on top for years to come. But is it a worthy contender?

Absolutely. Engineered to be lighter, smaller and more efficient than Nikon’s well-loved F series, the Z7 has become a staple and is revered by many enthusiasts. It’s ergonomic, has impressive specs, and, of course, takes fantastic photographs and videos.

Its high resolution is best suited for landscape and studio photography where detail can’t be compromised. Regardless, whether you’re a professional, seasoned, or absolute beginner, the Z7 is an excellent choice.

We don’t blame you for thinking that the Z6 came first, but don’t be fooled. It’s not a predecessor or downgrade to the Z7, as the two were introduced and released at the same time.

Almost precisely alike in both form and function, the Z6 is regarded as the “amateur” choice of the two. This is in no way a criticism, but rather an implication that it’s more suited to the general public. Where the Z7 shines in professionalism, the Z6 has the upper hand in operation.

With a lower resolution and the exclusion of a small number of advanced features, this model is better suited for portraits, still lifes, food, and casual photography. It’s also the more economical of the two and so is recommended to absolute beginners and hobbyists.

Since it’s not as sophisticated as the Z7 in terms of its pictures, but has no difference in its video specs, the Z6 is also a wise choice for video influencers. We recommend it to aspiring photographers who want to get started with Mirrorless Cameras, as it is an excellent camera that doesn’t break your budget.

The Z6 has a reputation as a customer favorite and is often classed as the best mirrorless camera on the market.

Preferred camera for casual photography.
Excellent picture quality for social media.
Better for still life photography.
Superior portraits.
Ergonomic and easy to handle.
Works well for handheld shooting.
Budget option.

Cons:

Doesn’t fully articulate.

Verdict:
Best for amateurs or beginners, and for everyday photography.

0.43x Auxiliary Wideangle Lens - it conveniently mounts to the front of your fixed or zoom lens, and allows you to capture a wider field of view, 2.2x Auxiliary Telephoto Lens - brings you twice as close to the action. Perfect for long-distance photo situations such as sporting events

NIKON D3500: A great camera for beginners. Equipped with a 24.2MP DX APS-C CMOS image sensor that is 15 times larger than a smartphone, and Nikon’s signature EXPEED image processing system, you will have extremely high resolution photos.

PERFECT BUILD: Lightweight, comfortable, and balanced in its design, this camera sets you up for easy success. The 3” display gives you 921,000-dot resolution and a 170 viewing angle. This camera is completely compatible with Nikon’s SnapBridge App so that you camera and smartphone are in constant harmony

TWO LENS BUNDLE: The Nikon D3500 Camera comes paired with Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR and 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lenses. The 18-55mm is compact, lightweight, and extremely versatile, great for landscape, video, or wide-angle shots. The 70-300mm lens is a super telephoto lens designed to bring those hard to shoot, far away subjects closer to life.

Transcend 128GB 300S UHS-I SDXC Memory Card-Designed for use in devices that support the UHS-I bus, such as digital cameras, DSLRs, camcorders, and more, the 128GB 300S UHS-I SDXC Memory Card from Transcend can capture 4K, 3D, and Full HD video, plus raw and JPEG still images and photo bursts. It has a capacity of 128GB and features a speed class rating of V30, which guarantees minimum

Here’s the thing about Nikon: it didn’t just pop up out of nowhere one day. For more than a century, Nikon has dominated the optics industry by innovating a fair share of the technology we use today.

The brand stands out because of its refreshing take on photography. Initially, Nikon didn’t produce cameras at all. It specialized in the mass production of microscopes, binoculars, and astronomical telescopes. It was only 15 years after the company formed that cameras entered its production line, and even then they were meant for aerial photography.

We don’t know about you, but we’re inclined to trust the guys that started out with lenses powerful enough to zoom in on space.

In 1950, word of Nikon’s premium lenses spread throughout the United States, thanks to praise from the New York Times. Within three years, Nikon’s US division had settled, and its commercial cameras took the lead in photography. Also in the 1950s, Nikon played a significant role in the development of underwater cameras.

So, every pretty picture of ocean life you’ve ever seen can technically be credited to Nikon’s contribution.

You don’t have to search far to find evidence that Nikon makes some of the best Mirrorless cameras around. Most professionals and enthusiasts note its superior build and functionality, which is unsurprising considering its cameras were a byproduct of its success in the optic glass.

Nikon’s Entrance Into The Mirrorless Industry

The Z series wasn’t Nikon’s first attempt at a mirrorless camera, but to date, it is without a doubt the best. Nikon’s initial run into mirrorless equipment— the 1 series, incepted in 2012— wasn’t successful for many reasons; including price, a few design flaws, and poor timing in its release.

Many customers complained that the 1 series was overpriced and overrated, and it’s suspected that this was due to Nikon rushing to enter the market. Unfortunately, after a 6-year run, the 1 series was discontinued in July 2018. One month later, Nikon announced both the Z6 and Z7.

Though some consumers were wary after the failure of Nikon’s first attempt at mirrorless cameras, they were proven wrong in November 2018 when the Z series hit shelves.

Nikon reentered the market with a vengeance, turning the tables a full 180 degrees. Knocking most competitors out of the park (and with very little competition to begin with), the brand now produces what are arguably two of the best mirrorless cameras you can buy.

The Advantages of Mirrorless Cameras

For most of photography’s history, DSLR (Digitial Single-Lens Reflex) cameras were the norm. These models hold a mirror that reflects light into and through the lens and a prism. When you take a photo, this mirror flips, which redirects the light to an image sensor and captures your picture.

DSLM (Digital Single-Lens Mirrorless) cameras work a little differently. The mirror and prism— are cut out, and light travels straight from the lens to the image sensor.

Mirrorless cameras have overtaken DSLRs in sales. As the technology progresses, it’s unlikely that DSLRs will make a comeback outside of niche and professional photography. Manufacturers— like Nikon— have shifted their focus because of this, and mirrorless models continue to thrive. Here’s why:

Mirrorless Cameras are Faster

Modern cameras are lightning-fast, but DSLRs are at a disadvantage because of their internal mechanism. The extra steps of light hitting prisms and mirrors before a picture is captured takes extra time.

DSLMs don’t have this issue. The absence of these components means you can take faster photos with them.
They’re Lighter Too

The mirror and prism add mass to DSLRs. They don’t weigh a ton, but they can be challenging to carry or pack. You have to account for the extra weight while traveling.

Mirrorless cameras take up less room and aren’t as hefty or cumbersome as their predecessor. If you’re an avid photographer, this is bound to save you some trouble when you’re on the go.

Better Video Quality

Have you ever noticed that with a DSLR, even if it takes incredible photos, it’s videos will seem a bit dull? This is because the mirror literally gets in the way. DSLRs can’t use phase detection when the mirror is up (which it has to be to reflect images). This makes the output inaccurate and often distorted.

Of course, since there is no mirror, Mirrorless Cameras capture clearer videos. With an increasing demand for better video quality, mirrorless models are the clear winners in this department.

DSLMs are Rapidly Improving

Mirrorless cameras are slowly but surely becoming the preferred top of the line choice for photgraphers. WIth regualr technology updates and pricining, how can it not?

It’s safe to say that these issues— for lack of a better word— are improved with every new release. For the most part, mirrorless cameras have caught up to DSLRs in almost every way. If you’re an amateur photographer, you’ll likely notice their pitfalls.

Which Is the Best Nikon Mirrorless Camera?

Since mirrorless cameras are all the rage and Nikon has marked its territory with the Z series, it makes sense to invest in one. But of our two recommendations, which one is best suited for you?

What Will You Use It For?

Details are what sets these two cameras apart, and should be the decider in which one you choose. If you have no need for a studio-quality camera, the Z7 might feel like overkill. On the other hand, if you need a crisper resolution for your work, the Z6 won’t suffice.

The latter is better for capturing people, and subjects like food or displays. It’s better if you’re looking to up your selfie game or if you need the best video quality possible for YouTube or other video channels.

If you’re looking to photograph nature, architecture or inside studio conditions go with the Z7.

We have to emphasize that both the Z6 and the Z7 are suitable for professional use. The Z7 does have slightly more advanced features and more control in its utility. This could be either a blessing or a curse, depending on your skill (or how nitpicky you are).

As it stands, the Z7 gives you more for your money, but the Z6 is simpler to operate.

How Much Are You Willing to Spend?

Price is an important consideration as you would likely not want to break your budget. There is a significant difference in cost here, and since these are high-end models, price is a huge factor.

One argument is that you may as well get the Z6 because it’s the same camera for practically half the price. Don’t fall into this trap and spend if there’s a chance that you won’t be satisfied with it.

If you need the high resolution of the Z7, skimping just because its sibling is more affordable won’t be worth the money you save. On the flip side, don’t buy the Z7 just because it’s fancier or more valuable.

It’s totally worth it to get the Z7 for all of its perks— but only if it’s necessary. In most cases, the Z6 will suffice, especially if it’s for fun, personal use, or one-upping your friends on social media.

Picture Perfect

Ultimately, both the Z7 and the Z6 are excellent cameras. There’s little to criticize here, and both have proven their worth in the industry. The one you should buy depends mostly on your intended use of it.

The Z7 is the sophisticated choice. It’s higher resolution will make a significant difference, and it’s something you’ll miss if you’re accustomed to professional quality photography. On the other hand, if you’re only getting started in photography and have no immediate need for advanced features, the Z6 is the stronger option.

Did we mention that the Z6 was named as the best camera of 2020? It says a lot about its quality, and Nikon’s standard as a whole.

Which of Nikon’s Z series do you prefer? We enjoy hearing from you, so don’t hesitate to leave us your thoughts or questions.